The Fargo Police Department is notifying the community that a registered sex offender, Michael Allan Nelson, registered at 726 College St N in Fargo, ND. Nelson was assessed as a high-risk offender by the North Dakota Sex Offender Risk Assessment Committee. The following information describes Nelson and his offense:
Michael Allan Nelson
31 years old, 5’9, 180 lbs., blue eyes, blond hair
726 College St N
Fargo, North Dakota
Offense Background:
Nelson was convicted in Barnes County District Court, ND in 2009 of Corruption/Solicitation of a Minor. He provided alcohol for and had sex with a 14 year-old female acquaintance. Nelson is a lifetime registrant.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Why was the sex offender allowed to move into my neighborhood?
Answer: The Fargo Police Department cannot dictate where a sex offender chooses to live. The offender is required to register with us and notify us of any changes in address or employment.
2. Is this person dangerous?
Answer: Interestingly, none of the high-risk offenders that have lived in Fargo are known to have been charged with another sex offense in Fargo. The Fargo Police Department checks on each offender several times each year to ensure they are compliant with their requirements to register. The attention of the community notification process and the frequent visits by the police department seem to act as a deterrent to criminal behavior. The state has assessed this offender as having a high-risk for offending again. As a result, we believe it is important for neighbors to have accurate information about the offender.
3. What should I do if I see suspicious behavior?
Answer: If you see any suspicious behavior you should notify the police department immediately. Don’t take action yourself. The Fargo Police Department relies on alert and aware citizens to provide valuable information in many instances and appreciates your involvement.
4. Who should I contact if I have questions?
Answer: If you have questions or concerns, you can contact the police department and speak to your beat sergeant, by calling 241-8175. You may also call Lieutenant Bill Ahlfeldt at 701-241-1414.
At every community meeting we caution the public about harassment or, other criminal behavior directed at the offender. This can result in criminal action against those responsible and endanger the sex offender registration law. Sex offender registration laws are under constant scrutiny and legal action. Law enforcement agencies make good use of the information provided by registration and does not want to see the law struck down.
If you would like more information about high-risk sex offenders in the city of Fargo, visit our website at www.fargopolice.com. Information on high-risk and lifetime offenders is also available on the North Dakota Attorney General’s website at www.ndsexoffender.com and the Dru Sjodin National Sex Offender Public Website at http://www.nsopr.gov/. These website have the answers to many frequently asked questions.